Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Oxazepam
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Oxazepam: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Concurrent benzodiazepine and buprenorphine use increases risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Implant levels are steady and cannot be quickly withdrawn.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Oxazepam can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression from opioid receptor agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Avoid unless alternatives are inadequate; use the lowest oxazepam dose and shortest duration, and monitor sedation and respiratory status.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Oxazepam
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Oxazepam Contraindicated
- Oxazepam + Sodium oxybate Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Oxazepam Major
- Amobarbital + Oxazepam Major
- Baclofen + Oxazepam Major
- Belladonna and opium + Oxazepam Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Oxazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Oxazepam can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Concurrent benzodiazepine and buprenorphine use increases risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Implant levels are steady and cannot be quickly withdrawn.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Oxazepam?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid unless alternatives are inadequate; use the lowest oxazepam dose and shortest duration, and monitor sedation and respiratory status.
What other medicines interact with Oxazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Oxazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Oxazepam page.
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